South Carolina Statewide Rule

South Carolina Family Childcare Home Licensing

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across South Carolina (2026)

Key Facts

Governing statute: SC Code Title 63-13
Registration threshold: 1 to 6 children
License threshold: 7 to 12 children
Background check: Required, fingerprinted
Regulator: SC DSS Child Care

Last verified: August 21, 2026Source: South Carolina Legislature

Summary

South Carolina requires family childcare homes serving more than a limited number of unrelated children to register or be licensed by DSS. State law establishes uniform health, safety, and staffing standards statewide.

(A) As used in this chapter, "family childcare home" means a facility within a residence occupied by the operator in which childcare regularly is provided for no more than six children, unattended by a parent or legal guardian, including those children living in the home and the children received for childcare who are related to the resident caregiver. However, an occupied residence in which childcare is provided only for a child or children related to the resident caregiver or only for the child or children of one unrelated family, or only for a combination of these children, is not a family childcare home.

Source: South Carolina LegislatureView official code

Full Breakdown

Under SC Code Title 63, Chapter 13, family childcare homes (caring for up to six children) must register with the SC Department of Social Services, while group childcare homes (seven to twelve children) must be licensed. Operators must complete background checks, fingerprinting, and pre-service training including CPR and first aid. Homes must meet fire safety, sanitation, and child-to-staff ratio standards. Annual inspections verify compliance. Local zoning may regulate the use, but health and safety operating standards are set by state law and DSS regulation.

Violations & Penalties

Operating an unregistered or unlicensed childcare home is a misdemeanor. Penalties include fines up to $1,000 and forced closure. Repeat or serious violations may result in permanent disqualification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to register if I only watch my niece and nephew?

No. Care for relatives is exempt. Registration applies when caring for unrelated children for compensation beyond the statutory threshold.

Can my city ban home daycares?

Cities may apply zoning rules but cannot impose health and safety standards inconsistent with state DSS regulations. Many home daycares are protected uses in residential zones.

How often are inspections?

Registered and licensed homes are subject to annual inspections by DSS, plus complaint-based investigations. Fire and health inspections may also occur.

Sources

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